Gold Coast Rapid Transit

20 Soils, Geology and Topography 41/16445/364842 Gold Coast Rapid Transit Concept Design Impact Management Plan Volume 2 Chapter 20 - Soils, Geology and Topography

Contents

1. Introduction 20–1

2. Description of the Existing Environment 20–2 2.1 Corridor Topography, Landform Patterns and Existing Environment 20–2 2.2 Geology and Soils 20–3 2.3 Contaminated Land 20–15

3. Potential Benefits, Impacts and Mitigation Measures 20–21 3.1 Overview of Potential Benefits and Impacts 20–21 3.2 Specific impacts and mitigation measures 20–22

4. Conclusion and Recommendations 20–27 4.1 Overview 20–27 4.2 Topography and Landform 20–27 4.3 Geology and Soils 20–27 4.4 Acid Sulfate Soils 20–28 4.5 Contaminated Land 20–28

Table Index Table 20-2 Section 3 EMR Listings 20–19

Figure Index Figure 20-1 Topographical and Landform Characteristics of the Study Area (Section 2) 20–5 Figure 20-2 Topographical and Landform Characteristics of the Study Area (Section 3) 20–6 Figure 20-3 Geological Characteristics of the Study Area (Section 2) 20–7 Figure 20-4 Geological Characteristics of the Study Area (Section 3) 20–8 Figure 20-5 Soil Characteristics of the Study Area (Section 2) 20–9 Figure 20-6 Soil Characteristics of the Study Area (Section 3) 20–10 Vol 2 Chp 20–ii 41/16445/364842 Gold Coast Rapid Transit Concept Design Impact Management Plan Volume 2 Chapter 20 - Soils, Geology and Topography

Figure 20-7 Acid Sulphate Soils Present within Study Area (Section 2) 20–13 Figure 20-8 Acid Sulphate Soils Present within Study Area (Section 3) 20–14 Figure 20-9 Contaminated Land Present within Study Area (Section 2) 20–16 Figure 20-10 Contaminated Land Present within Study Area (Section 3) 20–17

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Vol 2 Chp 20–iii 41/16445/364842 Gold Coast Rapid Transit Concept Design Impact Management Plan Volume 2 Chapter 20 - Soils, Geology and Topography

1. Introduction

The purpose of this chapter is to identify the topography, geological landforms and soil features along the Gold Coast Rapid Transit (GCRT) corridor and assess the impacts associated with its construction. It proposes mitigation measures to minimise these impacts on the soils, geology and topography of surrounding areas. The chapter seeks to inform the GCRT Project with background on the key areas of soils, geology and topography where relevant to the design, construction and operation of the GCRT. The preferred alignment crosses varying topographical, landform, geological and soil features between Southport and Broadbeach. A review of the landforms, landscape and topography of the alignment is provided below which is based on observations made during site visits by GHD personnel and from available mapping for the area. The data used to conduct this review is referenced in the title block of each figure referred to in this chapter. For detail on methodology and data sources, and site visits used for deriving soil, geology and topographical characteristics and potential impacts, refer to the Volume 7 technical report, titled Soils, Geology and Topography.

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2. Description of the Existing Environment

2.1 Corridor Topography, Landform Patterns and Existing Environment

2.1.1 Overview A review of the landforms, landscape and topography of the alignment is provided below and illustrated in Figure 20-1. This information is based on observations made during site visits in early October 2007, and available mapping for the project area. Topographical information for the alignment was provided by the Gold Coast City Council (GCCC), and is limited to contours of ten metre intervals. Figure 20-1 illustrates the topography and surrounding environment of Sections 2 and 3 of the GCRT. The elevations for the entire alignment range from 5 metres to 25 metres.

2.1.2 Section 2 Travelling east from University Hospital Station the route will be impacting on a former landfill located near Baratta Street in Southport. This landfill has been decommissioned and filled and is now being utilised as a GCCC depot. The former landfill is likely to pose issues for design, construction and operation of the GCRT in regards to management of contaminated soil, geotechnical issues and impact on surrounding watercourses such as Loders Creek, which follows the boundary of this site. The existing environment consists mainly of developed residential areas, commercial outlets, and public places (schools and parks). East of Southport, Broadwater and Scarborough Street South station is the Broadwater and Nerang River. Altered somewhat due to development and canal estates, works may still impact on these water bodies, especially when crossing the Broadwater on the Sundale Bridge. The topography is characterised by undulating hills with a gradual decline towards the Broadwater at the eastern most extent of the alignment. Elevations range between 5 metres and 25 metres Australian Height Datum (AHD1) (refer to Figure 20-1). The lowest lying areas are along Loders Creek (including adjacent to the GCCC Baratta Street Depot), the Broadwater, and the western end of Queen Street.

2.1.3 Section 3 Section 3 is bordered by Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach on the east side and the Nerang River and Canal waters on the west. The underlying sediments are mapped mostly as sands with the surrounding landscape dominated by residential apartment complexes and commercial outlets. Service stations are located intermittently along the alignment. The intensity of commercial and residential development in Section 3 has altered the original topographical landscape. This has resulted in the entire Section being relatively flat and around five metres AHD in all areas (Refer to Figure 20-1). A number of waterway crossings are present in this section where localised changes to the physical topography will occur, these include the Nerang River

1 AHD refers to Australian Height Datum. This is the standard elevation reference for mapping purposes adopted by the National Mapping Council of Australia. As a general guide, 0.0m AHD is approximately equal to mean sea level.

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near Macintosh Island, Narrow Neck, Chevron Island, Paradise Island, Isle of Capri, Florida Gardens and Jupiter’s Casino.

2.2 Geology and Soils

2.2.1 Overview Background information into the geological forms within the project area is detailed below. By referencing the Geological Society of Queensland, 1:500,000 Moreton Geology Map (1980) and data provided by GCCC at a scale of 1:100,000, it is apparent the overall project area is dominated by a combination of Quaternary-aged alluvial and coastal plain sediments and the Devonian- to Carboniferous-aged Neranleigh-Fernvale beds. Neranleigh Fernvale beds typically comprise sequences of deep-water marine sediments and some marine volcanics, which have been subjected to weak regional metamorphism. Rock types can include phyllite, grey wacke, arenite, quartz arenite and quartzite. The alluvial sediments are much younger and typically comprise clays, sands, silt and gravel at varying degrees of consolidation. A review of Geological and soil characteristics of Sections 2 and 3 of the alignment is provided below and illustrated in Figure 20-3 to Figure 20-6.

2.2.2 Section 2 A review of the available mapping and information for the Section 2 project area indicates the dominant geological formation is Neranleigh Fernvale beds. Lower-lying areas associated with Loders Creek appear to have an overlying layer of quaternary aged flood plain alluvium. The exception to the geological forms detailed above is the anthropogenic fill located where the alignment as it exits Smith Street and travels through the former Baratta Street landfill site (currently GCCC depot). The anthropogenic fill material would comprise the landfill itself and the soil used to cover and cap the landfill after decommissioning. A second former landfill, with similar fill types, is located at Owen Park in Queen Street Southport. Based on the extent of the landfill at this point, it is expected that the GCRT alignment will avoid this area. Based on previous investigations by Egis Consulting (2000) into this area, the landfill is likely to be bounded to the north by Loders Creek and to the south by Southport Primary School and extends beneath part of Southport Leagues Club and the Ned Twohill Equestrian Centre. The current GCRT alignment does not traverse this area. Areas of coastal floodplain (including clay silt sand and gravel) are also present from Scarborough Street and south to the Broadwater, where estuarine channels (sandy mud, muddy sand, minor gravel) are also mapped. This is prevalent where the alignment crosses the Nerang River. Three other geological/soil formations are mapped within Section 2, not including the Neranleigh Fernvale beds. The area surrounding Loders creek is mapped as Quaternary aged, flood plain alluvium, consisting mainly sands, silts and clays. The route from Southport Station to the end of Section 2 is described as Quaternary aged marine sediments (near shore sand), whilst the former landfill located at Baratta Street and the landfill also located off Queen Street consists of anthropogenic fill; mainly clays, sands and gravels. Vol 2 Chp 20–3 41/16445/364842 Gold Coast Rapid Transit Concept Design Impact Management Plan Volume 2 Chapter 20 - Soils, Geology and Topography

2.2.3 Section 3 The alignment for Section 3, west of the Gold Coast Highway, is dominated by Holocene-aged estuarine, flood plain (Q) tidal delta deposits mainly comprising clay, silt, sand, gravel and mud. The areas east of the Gold Coast Highway exhibit characteristics more consistent with Holocene-aged beach ridge system (Qhb), mainly consisting of Quartz sands. The area of the alignment from Main Beach to Northcliffe is mapped predominantly as anthropogenic fill, comprising clays, sand and gravels, which was possibly imported to improve the suitability of the area for construction and development. From Northcliffe through to Florida Gardens the route is positioned at the mapped interface of the beach ridges (quartz sand and shelly sand) and anthropogenic fill material. South of Florida Gardens and through to Broadbeach South the geology is predominantly beach ridges comprising quartz sand and shelly sand, however, between Cascade Gardens and the Gold Coast Convention Centre, some undifferentiated coastal plain deposits are mapped. These typically comprise mud and sand with a veneer of alluvium. This area may have formed part of Little Tallebudgera Creek in the past. As shown in Figure 20-5 and Figure 20-7 the remainder of Section 3 consists of soils generally associated with beach ridges, quartz sand and shelly sands of Holocene aged beach ridges.

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Source: 5m contours, Roads & Imagery supplied by GCCC (2006) Projection: MGA56 (GDA94) Date Printed: 19-01-2009 File:G:\41\16445\GIS\MAP\Final_CDIMP\ Volume 2\MXD\Chapter 20\ Fig02Topography_LandForm_Section3.mxd 538000 539000 540000 541000

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FERRY ROAD Qa/Qc : Coastal flood plain : clay, silt, sand, gravel; flood plain alluvium ² Qa/Sw - Alluvium covered with swamp forest : clay, silt, sand and gravel 6903000 6903000 Qhct - Tidal flats : sand and mud 0 250 500 750 Qhec - Estuarine channels : sandy mud, muddy sand, minor gravel Metres Qhh - AnthropogenicASHMORE fill : mainly ROAD clays, sands and 1:20,000 gravels IVER Qhh/C - Artificial channel/canal : sandy mud floors R and rock-lined margins, with revetmentsBENOWA BUNDALL Qhh/Ld - Landfill : disused waste disposal site : Baratta Street (based on one metre contour data and NERANG field information) Copyright: This document is and shall remain Qhh/Lg - Landfill : general : reclaimed for recreation the property of GHD Pty Ltd. The document grounds : Owen Park may only be used for the purpose for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the Qm - Marine basin : thin veneer of muddy sand, sandy terms of engagement for the commission. mud and mud over Pleistocene sediments Unauthorised use of this document in any BUNDALL ROAD way is prohibited. 538000 539000 540000 541000 Source: Geology (2002) Roads(2006) supplied by GCCC. Projection: MGA56 (GDA94) Date Printed: 19-01-2009 File:G:\41\16445\GIS\MAP\Final_CDIMP\ Volume 2\MXD\Chapter 20\ Fig03_Geology_Section2.mxd Size: A3 540000 541000 542000 543000

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T E PETERS DRIVE BROADBEACH Geology BERMUDASTREET BROADBEACH WATERS BROADBEACH NORTH DCf - Metasediments : Neranleigh-Fernvale beds : arenite, mudstone, shale, chert, jasper, basic ² metavolcanics, pillow lava, conglomerate Qa - Alluvium : clay, silt, sand and gravel : flood plain RUDD STREET alluvium Qa/Qc : Coastal flood plain : clay, silt, sand, gravel; 0 250 500 750 flood plain alluvium Metres Qc - CoastalNERANG Plain B : undifferentiated coastal plain R deposits : mud, sand,OA commonlyD with a veneer of Qa 1:20,000 BE AC H RIO VISTABOULEVARDE Qhcb - Beach ridges : quartz sand,R shelly sand OA Qhcb-0 - Contemporary beach : ridgeD and berm : quartz sand

6899000 Qhec - Estuarine channels : sandy mud, muddy sand, 6899000 CLEARminor gravel ISLAND WATERS HOOKER BOULEVARDE BROADBEACH SOUTH Copyright: This document is and shall remain Qhh - Anthropogenic fill : mainly clays, sands and the property of GHD Pty Ltd. The document gravels may only be used for the purpose for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the Qhh/C - Artificial channel/canal : sandy mud floors MERMAID BEACH terms of engagement for the commission. and rock-lined margins, with revetments MERMAID WATERS Unauthorised use of this document in any way is prohibited. 540000 541000 542000 543000 Source: Geology(2002), Roads(2006) supplied by GCCC Projection: MGA56 (GDA94) Date Printed: 19-01-2009 File:G:\41\16445\GIS\ MAP\Final_CDIMP\Volume 2\ MXD\Chapter 20\ Fig04_Geology_Section3.mxd Size: A3 538000 539000 540000 541000

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COTLEW STREET Soil AssociationsCURRUM Alluvium : clay, silt, sandASHMORE and gravel; flood plain alluvium

6904000 Alluvium covered with swamp forest 6904000 Anthropogenic fill - mainly clays, sands and gravels with overburden of soil STREET EAST Anthropogenic fill : clays, sands and gravels COTLEW underlain by alluvium (clay, silt, sand and gravel; flood ENOWA ROAD plain alluvium) B Anthropogenic fill : mainly clays, sands and gravels SURFERS PARADISE Arenite, mudstone, shale, chert, jasper, basic ² metavolcanics, pillow lava and conglomerate of Neranleigh Fernvale beds metasediments Beach ridges : quartz sand and shelly sand of Holocene beach ridges 0 250 500 750

Clay, silt, sand, gravel, flood plain alluvium of coastal Metres flood plain FERRY ROAD Estuarine channels - sandy muds, muddy sands, 1:20,000 minor gravel Large blocky boulders (e.g. sandstone, basalt) 6903000 6903000 Marine basin - thin veneer of muddy sand, sandy mud, mud Sand and mud in tidal flat deposits ASHMORE ROAD BENOWA BUNDALL Copyright: This document is and shall remain Sandy mud floors and rock-lined margins overlying the property of GHD Pty Ltd. The document unconsolidated Quaternary sediments may only be used for the purpose for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the Underlain by alluvium (clay, silt, sand and gravel; terms of engagement for the commission. flood plain alluvium) and Neranleigh-Fernvale Beds Unauthorised use of this document in any BUNDALL ROAD way is prohibited. 538000 539000 540000 541000 Source: Soil Associations (2004), Roads (2006) supplied by GCCC Projection: MGA56 (GDA94) Date Printed: 19-01-2009 File:G:\41\16445\GIS\MAP\ Final_CDIMP\Volume 2\MXD\ Chapter 20\Fig05_Soil_Section2.mxd Size: A3 539000 540000 541000 542000 543000

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Soil Associations 6900000 6900000 Alluvium : clay, silt, sand and gravel; flood plain alluvium

Anthropogenic fill - mainly clays, sands and gravels BERMUDASTREET BROADBEACH WATERS T E PETERS DRIVEBROADBEACH NORTH with overburden of soil Anthropogenic fill - mainly clays, sands and gravels with overburden of soil underlain by lower level BROADBEACH alluvial terrace RUDD STREET Anthrpogenic fill with overburden of imported soil, ² underlain by coastal sediments Arenite, mudstone, shale, chert, jasper, basic metavolcanics, pillow lava and conglomerate of Neranleigh NEFernvale beds metasediments 0 250 500 750 RANG BR OADB Beach ridges : quartz sand and shelly sand of Metres EAC Holocene beach ridges H RO RIO VISTABOULEVARDE A Clay, silt, sand, gravel, flood plain alluviumD of coastal 1:20,000 flood plain Estuarine channels - sandy muds, muddy sands, BROADBEACH SOUTH 6899000 6899000 minor gravel Marine sediments - near-shore sands : quartz sand HOOKER BOULEVARDE CLEAR ISLAND WATERS

Quartz sand of contemporary beach ridge and berm EET R Copyright: This document is and shall remain Sandy mud floors and rock-lined margins overlying the property of GHD Pty Ltd. The document ST unconsolidated Quaternary sediments A may only be used for the purpose for which it D MERMAID WATERS was commissioned and in accordance with the Undifferentiated coastal plain deposits : mud, sand,U M terms of engagement for the commission. commonly with a veneer of alluvium R MERMAID BEACH E Unauthorised use of this document in any B way is prohibited. 539000 540000 541000 542000 543000 Source: Soil Associations(2004) Roads(2006) supplied by GCCC Projection: MGA56 (GDA94) Date Printed: 19-01-2009 File:G:\41\16445\GIS\MAP\ Final_CDIMP\Volume 2\MXD\ Chapter 20\Fig06_Soil_Section3.mxd Size: A3 41/16445/364842 Gold Coast Rapid Transit Concept Design Impact Management Plan Volume 2 Chapter 20 - Soils, Geology and Topography

Acid Sulfate Soils

2.2.4 Overview Acid sulfate soils (ASS) include both actual acid sulfate soils (AASS) and potential acid sulfate soils (PASS). These soils generally occur in Quaternary aged (1.8 Ma2 – Present) marine or estuarine sediments, which are predominantly confined to coastal lowlands with elevations generally below five metres AHD. Within these sediments, the majority of soils that present an environmental risk are generally confined to the Holocene aged (<10 000 years) material. When these lowland areas are disturbed, either by excavation or draining, which lowers the watertable, oxygen may get mixed into or enter the soil/sediment profile.

Oxygen in the soil/sediment profile can oxidise sulfide minerals, typically pyrite (FeS2) to form sulfate 2- 3+ (SO4 ) and iron (Fe ). In the presence of the water, the sulfate combines with the oxygen to form sulfuric acid (H2SO4) and the iron combines with oxygen to from iron oxide (Fe203). The formation of sulfuric acid causes the pH to fall below neutral (pH 7), with extremely low pH levels possible (pH < 4). Subsequently, the surrounding land (soil) and nearby waterways may become contaminated with acids and metals leached from the sediments by the acid. Under acidic conditions, metals such as aluminium and iron, as well as trace heavy metals (including arsenic), become more soluble and therefore are more easily mobilised by infiltrating waters. This may result in the significant degradation or destruction of the surrounding ecosystem. Under natural conditions, PASS is typically located below the watertable. A decrease in the watertable beyond its natural seasonal fluctuation can expose these soils to oxygen, oxidising the pyritic sediment, producing sulfuric acid. PASS are not usually present above the natural watertable because these materials have been exposed to oxygen long enough to convert all the sulfur-bearing minerals (i.e. pyrite) to acids or AASS. The AASS materials commonly have a mottled appearance (e.g. orange and yellow discolouration). Acidic conditions generated by ASS can corrode concrete (e.g. bridge abutments and underground services), steel (e.g. pipes) and can result in the rapid deterioration of asphalt surfaces. A review of the Acid Sulfate Soils mapping for Sections 2 and 3 of the alignment is provided below and illustrated in Figure 20-8. This data was supplied by GCCC and is referenced within the title block of the figures. An Acid Sulfate Soil investigation would be required once the final alignment is agreed on, conducted in accordance with the QASSIT guidelines. Details on the figures/mapping infer that the areas shown as actual ASS or potential ASS is based on the topography and possibly some investigations conducted in the area. Areas depicted, as having low or negligible probability of ASS is estimate only and is based on limited or nil field assessments, as stated in the legends in Figure 20-8 and Figure 20-9. This is important to note as these maps are indicative only and may not be a true representation of the actual extent of ASS.

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2.2.5 Section 2 A review of GCCC and Department of Natural Resources and Water Acid Sulfate Soil mapping (referenced on the figures) indicates the following three areas within Section 2 may encounter actual and or potential ASS (refer to Figure 20-8):

» 200 metre section at the western most extent of Queen Street, Southport on a tributary of Loders Creek;

» Queen Street adjacent to Southport Primary School; and

» Ada Bell Way and south to the Sundale Bridge. Other areas are mapped as having low or negligible probability of ASS, however such areas should not be assumed to be free of actual or potential ASS. A more detailed investigation would be required for this area once the construction method and alignment is finalised.

2.2.6 Section 3 A review of available data (Figure 20-9) supplied by GCCC indicates that the majority of Section 3 is located on land greater than five metres AHD with a low probability for actual and potential ASS. It is noted that the area from Florida Gardens stop through to the southern extent of Section 3, whilst being less than five metres AHD, is also mapped as having a low or negligible potential for ASS (refer to Figure 20-9). It would be prudent for GCRT to investigate the presence of ASS once the alignment, construction methods and excavation areas are known.

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HIGH STR

6907000 6907000 Local Connector Road GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY NORTH STREET SMITH STREET Acid Sulfate Soils

E Land <5m AHD with low or E T neglible probability of ASS N

ORTH (Limited field assessment) Land >5m AHD with low or HIGH STREET SOUTH neglible probability of ASS (Limited, or no, field assessment) SOUTHPORT GOLD C Urban or Industrial Land likely to contain ASS

O WARDOO STREET AST

HIGH STREET H T GOLD COAST HOSPITAL IGHWA

REE T 6906000 6906000 S Y O O D SOUTHPORT SOUTH R A W QUEEN STREET OLSEN AVENUE

SOUTHPORT EGERTON STREET NERANG STREET BROADWATER

AD G RO RAN MOLENDINAR SOUTHPORT NE

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SECTION 2 SOUTHPORT

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URRA ROAD PARADISE B

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BUNDALL ROAD Unauthorised use of this document in any way is prohibited.

6902000 538000 539000 540000 541000 6902000 Source: Aerial photography, contaminated land sites and acid sulfate soils supplied by GCCC(2006) Projection: MGA56 (GDA94) Date Printed: 19-01-2009 File:G:\41\16445\GIS\MAP\Final_CDIMP\ Volume 2\MXD\Chapter 20\ Fig07_Acid_Sulfates_Section2.mxd Size: A3 540000 541000 542000 543000

TransLink MAIN BEACH Gold Coast Rapid Transit

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D FIGURE 20 - 8 A O R A SOUTHPORT W O BEN Legend

6904000 PARADISE WATERS 6904000 Stations

STREET EAST Section 2 COTLEW Section 3 Road Centrelines Highway Secondary Road Local Connector Road Acid Sulfate Soils ASHMORE FERRY ROAD CYPRESS AVENUE Land <5m AHD with low or neglible probability of ASS (Limited field assessment)

FERNY AVENUE 6903000 6903000 Land >5m AHD with low or neglible probability of ASS BENOWA (Limited, or no, field assessment) Urban or Industrial Land CAVILL AVENUE likely to contain ASS SURFERS PARADISE

E M EMBRANC

I VE SURFERS PARADISE 6902000 6902000

ASHMORE ROAD NORTHCLIFFE

BUNDALLROAD BUNDALL BENOWA

COOMBABAH 6901000 6901000 FLORIDA GARDENS SECTION 1 SECTION 2 SOUTHPORT

SURFERS SECTION 3 PARADISE

BROADBEACH 6900000 6900000

BROADBEACH BERMUDASTREET BROADBEACH WATERS T E PETERS DRIVEBROADBEACH NORTH RUDD STREET ²

NERA NG BR 0 250 500 750 OA DB RIO VISTABOULEVARDE Metres EA C H R O G 1:20,000

A O D LD COAST 6899000 6899000

HOOKER BOULEVARDE

CLEAR ISLAND WATERS H ET I E BROADBEACH SOUTH GHW Copyright: This document is and shall remain TR S the property of GHD Pty Ltd. The document AY A may only be used for the purpose for which it D MERMAID WATERS U was commissioned and in accordance with the MERMAID BEACH terms of engagement for the commission.

ERM Unauthorised use of this document in any B way is prohibited. 540000 541000 542000 543000 Source: Aerial photography and acid sulfate soils supplied by GCCC(2006) Projection: MGA56 (GDA94) Date Printed: 19-01-2009 File:G:\41\16445\GIS\MAP\ Final_CDIMP\Volume 2\MXD\ Chapter 20\Fig08_Acid_Sulfates_Section3.mxd Size: A3 41/16445/364842 Gold Coast Rapid Transit Concept Design Impact Management Plan Volume 2 Chapter 20 - Soils, Geology and Topography

2.3 Contaminated Land

2.3.1 Section 2 No properties in Section 2 were listed on the CLR, however a total of five EMR-listed properties were identified. Three different ‘Notifiable Activities’were recorded, which are detailed in Table 20-1, which highlights the properties searched and those that are listed on the EMR. Of the properties searched and listed on the EMR, they are discussed below. Lot 393 on CP860178 and Lot 218 on WD5245, located on Baratta Street (west) are owned and operated by GCCC. The sites are used as a council depot for storage, maintenance, car impound and offices. Lot 218 WD5245 is a former landfill site. It is understood that these two lots are proposed to be used as a depot site for the GCRT. The current Council depot site is likely to have contamination issues requiring further assessment, including underground and above ground fuel storage, oil and chemical storage, small scale wastewater treatment and - as indicated by the EMR listing - abrasive blasting may have also been conducted on this site. Each of these activities has the potential to impact on the contaminant status of the soils at this site. The presence of the landfill is in itself a contamination issue particularly if disturbance or compaction of waste is to occur. This could result in the mobilisation of leachate from the landfill either to groundwater or into Loders Creek. Furthermore, a range of organic or inorganic substances may contaminate soils from the site. Detailed geotechnical assessment of this site is required to determine the most appropriate option for the alignment and configuration of the depot. A contamination assessment should also be undertaken in conjunction with geotechnical investigations. Two other sites on Nerang Street in Southport are listed for Petroleum Product or Oil Storage. Lot 24 SP 143534 at 68 Nerang Street is a vacant lot at present and therefore it is not known whether petroleum storage infrastructure has been removed or remains onsite. Lot 10 S18220 at 41 Nerang Street has been listed on the EMR as the Southport Post Office, however, it is currently a Telstra exchange. The site has been included on the EMR for Petroleum Produce or Oil Storage, which is typical for telecommunications sites which can have underground or above ground fuel storage facilities, and may also include transformers (and associated polychlorinated biphenyls/PCB containing oils). Asbestos containing materials are also often found at older telecommunications exchanges. Given the proximity of the alignment to these properties, further investigation of the listing and potential contaminations issues would be required.

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H Highway 6907000 GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY IGH STR NORTH STREET 6907000 SMITH STREET Secondary Road

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N ORTH Contaminated Properties

HIGH STREET SOUTH EMR Listings

SOUTHPORT Land fill G OLD C Petroleum product or oil storage O WARDOO STREET A ST Petroleum product or H oil storage and T GOLD COAST HOSPITAL IGHWA NERANG STREET radioactive contaminant

REE T

6906000 6906000 and abrasive blasting S Y O O D SOUTHPORT SOUTH R SOUTHPORT A QUEEN STREET OLSEN AVENUE W BROADWATER

EGERTON STREET

OAD G R SO N MOLENDINAR UTHPORT NERA

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R 6905000 6905000 EET

COOMBABAH

A ROAD SECTION 1

URR B SECTION 2 SOUTHPORT COTLEW STREET SECTION 3 CURRUM SURFERS ASHMORE PARADISE 6904000 6904000

BROADBEACH STREET EAST COTLEW

OAD R

NOWA BE

SURFERS PARADISE FERRY ROAD ² 6903000 6903000

0 250 500 750

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BENOWA BUNDALL

Copyright: This document is and shall remain the property of GHD Pty Ltd. The document may only be used for the purpose for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the terms of engagement for the commission. BUNDALL ROAD Unauthorised use of this document in any way is prohibited. 6902000 6902000 538000 539000 540000 541000 Source: Aerial photography, Contaminated land sites (2007) and Roads(2006) supplied by GCCC Projection: MGA56 (GDA94) Date Printed: 19-01-2009 File:G:\41\16445\GIS\MAP\ Final_CDIMP\Volume 2\MXD\Chapter 20\ Fig09_ContaminatedLand_EMR_Section2.mxd Size: A3 539000 540000 541000 542000 543000

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COTLE W STREE Legend 6904000 PARADISE WATERS 6904000 T Stations EAS STREET T Section 2 COTLEW

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FERNY AVENUE Petroleum product or oil storage 6903000 6903000 Service stations Waste storage, treatment or disposal and petroleum CAVILL AVENUE product or oil storage BENOWA SURFERS PARADISE

E M EMBRANC

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NORTHCLIFFE ASHMORE ROAD BUNDALLROAD

BUNDALL

COOMBABAH 6901000 6901000 FLORIDA GARDENS

SECTION 1

SECTION 2 SOUTHPORT BENOWA SURFERS SECTION 3

NERANG RIVER PARADISE

BROADBEACH 6900000 6900000

T E PETERS DRIVE BERMUDASTREET BROADBEACH NORTH BROADBEACH WATERS RUDD STREET BROADBEACH ²

NERANG BR O ADB 0 250 500 750 EA CH R RIO VISTABOULEVARDE Metres O AD 1:20,000 6899000 6899000

HOOKER BOULEVARDE GOL

CLEAR ISLAND WATERS D ET C E BROADBEACH SOUTH OAS Copyright: This document is and shall remain TR S T the property of GHD Pty Ltd. The document HI MERMAID BEACH may only be used for the purpose for which it DA MERMAID WATERS G was commissioned and in accordance with the U H W terms of engagement for the commission. A ERM Y Unauthorised use of this document in any B way is prohibited. 539000 540000 541000 542000 543000 Source: Aerial photography, contaminated land sites(2007) And Roads (2006) supplied by GCCC Projection: MGA56 (GDA94) Date Printed: 19-01-2009 File:G:\41\16445\GIS\MAP\ Final_CDIMP\Volume 2\MXD\Chapter 20\ Fig10_ContaminatedLand_EMR_Section3.mxd Size: A3 41/16445/364842 Gold Coast Rapid Transit Concept Design Impact Management Plan Volume 2 Chapter 20 - Soils, Geology and Topography

Table 20-1 Section 2 EMR Listings

Notifiable Activity Lot Plan Property Name Address Potential Contaminants *

Petroleum Product or Oil Storage and Aliphatic hydrocarbons; Radioactive BTEX; PAH; Phenols; Contaminant and Gold Coast City Baratta Street, Lead; Abrasive Blasting 393 CP860178 Council Depot Southport Alkanes and ammonia; sulfides; heavy metals; Landfill 218 WD5245 organics acids, nutrients.

Aliphatic hydrocarbons; BTEX; PAH; Phenols; Lead. Petroleum Product or Southport Post 41 Nerang Street, Possibly PCBs and Oil Storage 10 S18220 Office Southport Asbestos

Vacant land Aliphatic hydrocarbons; Petroleum Product or (previously 68 Nerang Street, BTEX; PAH; Phenols; Lead Oil Storage 24 SP143534 developed) Southport

2.3.2 Section 3 No properties in Section 3 were listed on the CLR, however a total of 22 EMR listed properties were identified. A total of three different ‘Notifiable Activities’were recorded, which are detailed in Table 20-2. It also highlights the properties searched and those that are listed on the EMR. The list of EMR sites (Table 20-2) was used to identify potentially contaminated sites within the proposed Section 3 route. The potential impacts associated with the contaminated soils will depend solely on the types of materials and toxicities encountered. All 22 listings refer to either service stations, petroleum product or oil storage. The Thrifty Car Hire at Surfers Paradise is also listed for Waste Storage Treatment and Disposal, though it is not clear why. Some sites, which cover multiple lots, are listed more than once on the EMR (e.g. Mobil Surfers Paradise, Caltex Surfers Paradise and Lilli Putt Mini Golf at Surfers Paradise). The Lilli Putt Mini Golf site on Surfers Paradise Boulevard has EMR listings for five separate lots for service station use. This does not appear to be consistent with current site activities; however a further review of current and former site activities would be required to determine whether fuel storage infrastructure was or is present onsite and therefore what the potential for contamination is. A number of listings were not able to be accurately identified. These include:

» Lot 0 LB3, which is listed for Petroleum Product or Oil Storage. It is referred to as Cavill Avenue in the EMR search. An online lot and plan search on the Queensland State Government’s website also refers to this site only as Cavill Avenue. Therefore confirmation of the actual site could not be made.

» Lot 1 SP141008 has been referred to in the EMR search as 130 Ferny Avenue. However, the online lot and plan service does not identify this lot. Furthermore, 130 Ferny Avenue could not be identified

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online or during the site visit. It may however comprise what is currently a vacant cleared lot adjacent to 122 Ferny Avenue. The site is also listed for Petroleum Product or Oil Storage, which could not be verified at this time, and

» The physical address of Lot 960 SP141008 has only been referred to as Ferny Avenue Surfers Paradise. An online lot and plan search did not identify the location of the lot. Therefore confirmation of the activities and potential environmental impacts could not be made for this site, which is listed for Petroleum Product or Oil Storage. As discussed in Section 2.2, soils in Section 3 of the GCRT are dominated by anthropogenic fill and dune sands. The sands and possibly the fill (depending on its nature) are likely to promote the migration of contaminants, particularly in areas where there is a high groundwater table. Therefore it is possible that works through Section 3 may encounter soils contaminated by petroleum based hydrocarbons. Both the Nerang River and groundwater table could also be potentially impacted by the contaminants. However this would require further verification once the design has progressed further.

Table 20-2 Section 3 EMR Listings

Potential Notifiable Activity Lot Plan Property Name Address Contaminants *

Petroleum Product or Oil 15 Cypress Avenue, Aliphatic hydrocarbons; BTEX; 180 RP40234 Avis Rent A Car Storage Surfers Paradise PAH; Phenols; Lead

94 Ferny Avenue, Service Station 1 SP131449 Surfers Paradise

98 Ferny Avenue, Aliphatic hydrocarbons; BTEX; Service Station 2 SP131449 Mobil - Surfers Paradise Surfers Paradise PAH; Phenols; Lead

100 Ferny Avenue, Service Station 261 SP131449 Surfers Paradise

Petroleum Product or Oil 130 Ferny Avenue, Aliphatic hydrocarbons; BTEX; 1 SP141008 Name not known Storage Surfers Paradise PAH; Phenols; Lead

Petroleum Product or Oil Ferny Avenue, Aliphatic hydrocarbons; BTEX; 960 SP141008 Name not known Storage Surfers Paradise PAH; Phenols; Lead

Petroleum Product or Oil 1 RP77296 Storage 2885 Gold Coast Petroleum Product or Oil Aliphatic hydrocarbons; BTEX; 1 RP90522 Caltex - Surfers Paradise Highway, Surfers Storage PAH; Phenols; Lead Paradise Petroleum Product or Oil 2 RP90522 Storage

2745 Gold Coast Aliphatic hydrocarbons; BTEX; Service Station 30 RP907703 Caltex (Woolworths) Highway PAH; Phenols; Lead

1 Monaco Street, Aliphatic hydrocarbons; BTEX; Service Station 51 RP839085 Shell Service Station Surfers Paradise PAH; Phenols; Lead

Petroleum Product or Oil 33 Oak Avenue, Aliphatic hydrocarbons; BTEX; 11 CP866694 The Marriot Storage Surfers Paradise PAH; Phenols; Lead

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Potential Notifiable Activity Lot Plan Property Name Address Contaminants *

Petroleum Product or Oil 7 Staghorn Avenue, Aliphatic hydrocarbons; BTEX; 1 RP811673 Gold Coast International Storage Surfers Paradise PAH; Phenols; Lead

3197 Surfers Aliphatic hydrocarbons; BTEX; Petroleum Product or Oil Paradise PAH; Phenols; Lead 23 RP188916 ANA Hotel Storage Boulevarde, Surfers Paradise

3113 Surfers Aliphatic hydrocarbons; BTEX; Petroleum Product or Oil Paradise PAH; Phenols; Lead 100 RP188933 Black Dolphin Arcade Storage Boulevarde, Surfers Paradise

Petroleum Product or Oil Aliphatic hydrocarbons; BTEX; 0 LB3 Name not known Surfers Paradise Storage PAH; Phenols; Lead

Alkanes and ammonia; 3006 Surfers Waste Storage Treatment and sulfides; heavy metals; Paradise Disposal and Petroleum 1 RP212639 Thrifty Car Hire organics acids. Boulevarde, Surfers Product or Oil Storage Paradise Aliphatic hydrocarbons; BTEX; PAH; Phenols; Lead

Service Station 172 RP21845

Service Station 173 RP21845 2941, 2949, 2953, 2957, 2955 Surfers Aliphatic hydrocarbons; BTEX; Service Station 174 RP21845 Lilli Putt Mini Golf Paradise Boulevard, PAH; Phenols; Lead Surfers Paradise Service Station 1 RP59972

Service Station 2 RP59972

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3. Potential Benefits, Impacts and Mitigation Measures

3.1 Overview of Potential Benefits and Impacts The ground disturbance associated with the construction and operation of the GCRT is likely to include some or all of the following:

» subsurface impacts from support structures, bridges and underground services;

» cut and fill works;

» construction of hardstand areas;

» construction of a depot site;

» bridge and overpass construction;

» removal of existing infrastructure;

» removal of vegetation and landscape;

» preparation of work site areas; and

» soil/spoil disposal area. Potential impacts associated with these works vary according to type and location. Impacts that may occur include, but are not limited to:

» exposure and disturbance of ASS;

» exposure and disturbance of contaminated soils;

» risk of soil and water contamination;

» impacts from waste generated and stored (temporarily or permanently) on site;

» increased risk of settlement and instability of unconsolidated sediments;

» increased risk in soil erosion and sediment mobilisation;

» loss of fertile topsoil;

» destabilisation of the areas surrounding the works; and

» removal of vegetation and soil impacting the groundwater. The majority of these impacts would be limited to the construction phase and are likely to be localised in nature if managed appropriately. However the increased risk of settlement and instability of unconsolidated sediments and impacts associated with ASS are two issues that have the potential to continue through the operational phase if not investigated and managed appropriately during detailed design and construction. Furthermore works in the vicinity of the former landfill (GCCC depot Baratta Street) will require detailed geotechnical and contamination assessment to both minimise potential long- term negative impacts and refine the design. Potential benefits associated with soil and geology may include:

» improvement of surface water quality and environment through revegetation and erosion proofing of surrounding areas and improved management of land filled areas;

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» improving the conditions in relation to the geotechnical stability and subsurface; and

» removal or treatment of potentially contaminated soils from sensitive environments.

3.2 Specific impacts and mitigation measures

3.2.1 Topography and Landform Impacts on topography and landforms will mainly be associated with excavations, stockpiling and creating temporary and permanent access routes for vehicles to conduct site works. The location of excavations required for the construction of the GCRT is not specifically known, however it is assumed that some excavations will occur throughout stages of the construction. The Concept Design Impact Management Plan (CDIMP) indicates where excavation may occur but the final location, scale and need for excavations will be determined by detailed design. Once design and construction methods are known a better understanding of the likely impacted areas will be known. Issues associated with steep slopes are not anticipated to be an issue of significance, but smaller steep slopes (such as creek and river banks) will require appropriate mitigation of potential erosions and slope stability. Likewise, mitigation measures are to be implemented in any other areas where cut and fill activities may result in exposed earth on resulting batters. The majority of works for the GCRT are within highly developed areas where the potential to alter the landforms and topography is likely to be minor. A key exception to this may be at the GCCC depot at Baratta Street Southport where the GCRT depot is proposed in the CDIMP. As discussed previously, this site is a former landfill, which presents a range of geotechnical and environmental issues that require further investigation in order to progress the design of access to the site and layout of facilities. The key issue at this site is that large quantities of buried waste/refuse may need to be removed from the site for the construction of the GCRT corridor and the depot itself. There are two proposed potential engineering solutions:

» the higher risk, but potentially lower cost option is to construct the depot on top of the insitu landfill, without relocation of the refuse off-site, and

» the lower risk, but potentially higher cost option is to completely remove the extent of the existing landfill refuse material, line the excavation areas with very low permeability geomembrane material and replace with compacted select fill. Both options should be investigated further during the detailed design phase after a geotechnical investigation has been completed. Either option will involve regulatory compliance with the Environmental Protection Act 1994 with regard to management of development on a listed site. Regardless of what is reinstated after the removal of the waste, this will have a permanent impact on the landscape in this area. While in the long term it may be a beneficial impact (i.e. removing a major source of potential contamination and geotechnical instability), it will require detailed investigations and supervision from both an environmental and geotechnical point of view during design and construction. This is so that the temporary impacts to Loders Creek are minimised, appropriate controls are in place to address any remaining waste/refuse, and geotechnical requirements are met.

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3.2.2 Potential Geotechnical Issues A geotechnical assessment will be required to provide details regarding current and required subgrade, excavation, rock strength, settlement impacts and stability, likely foundation requirements as a minimum as well as construction phase issues such as site access and trafficability and hydrogeological issues including any dewatering requirements. The establishment of the GCRT depot on the former Baratta Street landfill poses a number of geotechnical risks, the most obvious being the risk of uncontrolled settlement of the buried waste/refuse. A separate report on the depot site has been undertaken for the GCRT, which outlines issues related to establishment of infrastructure on former landfills. At the present time the vertical extent of the landfill remains unknown along with the physical and chemical characteristics of the waste and therefore further comment on required types of foundations and pavements cannot be made. As discussed in Section 3.2.1 one of the options canvassed in the depot report involves the complete removal of waste/refuse from the site and the placement of appropriately engineered fill material. However prior to making decisions on these types of options, detailed geotechnical investigations will be required of the Baratta Street landfill before the detailed design phase to address the inherent stability risks associated with building on a landfill site. The majority of the remainder of the Section 2 and 3 alignments are within already built up areas, which are dominated by pavement, bitumen and concrete hardstands, which would not typically cause major trafficability issues. Undertaking detailed geotechnical investigations is the key requirement to mitigating or minimising the risk of uncontrolled settlement across all areas of the project. Geotechnical investigations are required at regular intervals through the whole alignment for both sections. More detailed geotechnical investigations will be required where structures will be constructed such as bridges, depots, stations etc.

3.2.3 Erosion and Settlement Risk Areas that are most of risk of erosion and settlement are those areas that are affected by moderate to substantial slopes, flooding and unstable soils. The majority of the alignment for Sections 2 and 3 of the GCRT is below 25 metres AHD, and is relatively flat. Erosion can occur on moderate slopes, disturbed ground and especially when dealing with areas prone to flooding or water movement. Potential activities associated with the project that would cause sediment movement and erosion include:

» vegetation clearing and disturbance of ground cover;

» development of site access routes and site offices;

» development of construction storage facilities;

» excavation;

» construction activities;

» dewatering of the ground to build structures; and

» disturbing natural slopes and embankments.

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Potential environmental impacts associated with erosion and sediment movement include but are not limited to the following:

» decrease in surface water quality;

» dust generation and movement; and

» ground instability. It is recommended that mitigation measures be put in place, including the development of specific topsoil management and rehabilitation methods and strategies, for each stage of scheduled construction works. They also include stripping, stockpiling, replacement staging activities and putting in place suitable storage times to minimise fertility degradation and soil loss. Construction works schedules can be prepared to incorporate progressive stripping of topsoil material and site rehabilitation/revegetation in order to minimise stockpiling times and unnecessary broad scale disturbance and exposure of vulnerable subsoils. Stripped topsoil can be separated from other material and where possible construction activities will be scheduled to minimise the disturbance of in situ soils and natural landforms features. Erosion is always a risk when vegetation and ground is disturbed. A site based Erosion and Sediment Control Management Plan for design, planning, construction and operational phases will be required.

3.2.4 Acid Sulfate Soils There is potential for disturbing ASS/PASS during construction activities along the corridor through direct disturbance and increased pore pressures due to additional traffic loading. The potential impacts associated with these activities include:

» changes to the groundwater table leading to oxidation of PASS;

» changes to water chemistry leading to degradation of aquatic ecosystems in receiving waterways, Loders Creek, Broadwater and Nerang River;

» acid leachate mobilising to local environments, impacting on aquatic life;

» treating naturally acidic soils with lime can result in detrimental effects to vegetation and fauna if not handled appropriately as some systems naturally adapt to the endemic acidic conditions;

» corrosion of steel structures, bricks and infrastructure; and

» impacts on vegetation health and productivity.

» The key mitigation strategy for minimising any disturbance of ASS/PASS is the identification and quantification of all ASS/PASS that could potentially be disturbed during the construction phase of the project. A detailed ASS/PASS investigation is required under State Planning Policy (SPP) 2/02 Planning and Managing Development Involving Acid Sulfate Soils - once the alignment has been finalised and prior to the detailed design phase of the project. This will need to address the following areas as a minimum:

» Section 2: – 200 metre section at the western most extent of Queen Street, Southport on a tributary of Loders Creek; – Queen Street adjacent to Southport Primary School, and – Ada Bell Way and south to the Sundale Bridge, and Vol 2 Chp 20–24 41/16445/364842 Gold Coast Rapid Transit Concept Design Impact Management Plan Volume 2 Chapter 20 - Soils, Geology and Topography

» Section 3: no requirement for ASS investigation on the basis of Department of Natural Resources and Water (DNRW) and GCCC mapping. Following these assessments an ASS management plan will be required to detail the treatment and mitigation measures required.

3.2.5 Contaminated Land The construction activities including surface excavation, road works, and construction of transition structures have the potential to encounter contaminated soil and/or groundwater. Contaminants in the soil may be released into the environment through contact with stormwater in situ or at a disposal location as well as by drawdown by groundwater. Contaminants can enter the environment and impact on the flora and fauna in both the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Contaminated soil and land will have to be managed effectively due to the close proximity of Loders Creek, Nerang River and Broadwater. The water quality of both surface water and groundwater can be impacted due to contamination, which may pose risks to human health as well as the environment. The costs associated with treating contaminated soils vary; some costs include but are not limited to, treatment (varies according to contaminants), treatment time, disposal, remediation and reporting. Based on the review conducted to date, the main contamination issues that are likely to be faced for the GCRT include:

» A number of service stations and petroleum product or oil storage facilities are present along the corridor. Contaminants typically associated with these types of situations including aliphatic hydrocarbons, monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes), phenols, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and lead. Typically, the presence of this type of contamination would not create significant barriers to the establishment of the GCRT corridor, and

» The GCRT corridor and depot are to be established at GCCC’s current depot site at Baratta Street, which includes a former landfill site. The depot and landfill site are the subject of separate reports for the GCRT Project. However, it should be reiterated that the landfill site in particular poses a range of potential contamination and geotechnical issues requiring further investigation in order to progress the design. These include: – exposition of waste materials; – generation and migration of landfill leachate to local ecosystems; and – handling of contaminated soils in contact with buried waste/refuse. Detailed investigation of the lateral and vertical extent of the landfill should as a minimum include, the physical and chemical characteristics of the waste/refuse, physical status of capping and cover materials in place, contamination status of capping soils, nearby soils, sediments and surface water and leachate, and a review of landfill gas monitoring results. More detailed and area specific mitigation measures to address the risks associated with contaminated soils will be documented based on the findings of additional investigations. For all sites along the alignment listed on the EMR, this should include a review of historical and current activities undertaken at the sites to further assess potential for contamination impacts on the GCRT. In particular in Section 3, a number of hotels are listed for Petroleum Product and Oil Storage. These listings are likely to relate to Vol 2 Chp 20–25 41/16445/364842 Gold Coast Rapid Transit Concept Design Impact Management Plan Volume 2 Chapter 20 - Soils, Geology and Topography

fuel tanks and possibly associated with generators. Owners/operators of these facilities should be contacted to ascertain the location and size of storage and the nature of the products stored, so that an assessment of likely impacts on the GCRT can be made.

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4. Conclusion and Recommendations

4.1 Overview The majority of impacts would be limited to the construction phase and are likely to be localised in nature. However the increased risk of settlement and instability of unconsolidated sediments and impacts associated with ASS are two issues that have the potential to continue through the operational phase if not investigated and managed appropriately during detailed design and construction. Works in the vicinity of the former landfill (GCCC depot Baratta Street) will also require detailed geotechnical and contamination assessment to minimise potential long term negative impacts.

4.2 Topography and Landform A review of the landforms, landscape and topography of the alignment was based on observations made during site visits and available mapping for the area. Topographical information for the alignment was provided by GCCC, and is limited to contours of ten metre intervals. The topography of Section 2 is characterised by undulating hills with a gradual decline towards the Broadwater at the eastern most extent of the alignment. Elevations range between 5 metres and 25 metres AHD. The lowest lying areas are along Loders Creek (including adjacent to the GCCC Baratta Street Depot), near the Broadwater itself and the western end of Queen Street. The intensity of commercial and residential development in Section 3 has altered the original topographical landscape. This has resulted in the entire section being relatively flat and around five metres AHD in all areas. A number of waterway crossings are present in this section where localised changes to the physical topography occur, however current road surfaces remain flat including the Nerang River near Macintosh Island, Narrow Neck, Chevron Island, Paradise Island, Isle of Capri, Florida Gardens and Jupiter’s Casino. Impacts on topography and landforms will mainly be associated with excavations, stockpiling and creating temporary and permanent access routes for vehicles to conduct site works. The majority of works for the GCRT are within highly developed areas where the potential to alter the landforms and topography is likely to be minor. A key exception to this may be at the GCCC depot at Baratta Street Southport where the GCRT depot is proposed. This site will require detailed investigations and supervision from both an environmental and geotechnical point of view during design and construction to ensure that temporary impacts to Loders Creek are minimised and appropriate controls are in place to address any remaining waste/refuse and geotechnical requirements.

4.3 Geology and Soils Quaternary-aged alluvial and coastal plain sediments and the Devonian- to Carboniferous-aged Neranleigh-Fernvale beds dominate the overall project area.

Areas that are most of risk of erosion and settlement risk are those areas that will be disturbed, dewatered, excavated, areas with high slopes, unstable ground and any banks or beds of watercourses that will be impacted on by the GCRT. Areas of particular concerns are works near banks of

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watercourses and any areas requiring extensive earthworks to improve the topography/grade for construction. Potential environmental impacts associated with erosion and sediment movement include but are not limited to:

» Decrease in surface water quality;

» Dust generation and movement; and

» Ground instability. It is recommended that mitigation measures be put in place including the development of specific topsoil management and rehabilitation methods and strategies for each stage of scheduled construction works. Erosion is always a risk when vegetation and ground is disturbed. A site based Erosion and Sediment Control Management Plan will be required to cover all aspects of the project from planning and preparation of sites to construction site operation and operational phase.

4.4 Acid Sulfate Soils A review of GCCC and DNRW Acid Sulfate Soil mapping indicates the following areas within the alignment may encounter actual and or potential ASS:

» Section 2: – 200 metre section at the western most extent of Queen Street, Southport on a tributary of Loders Creek; – Queen Street adjacent to Southport Primary School; and – Ada Bell Way and south to the Sundale Bridge. – Other areas are mapped as having low or negligible probability of ASS, and

» Section 3 is located on land greater than five metres AHD with a low potential for actual and potential ASS. It is noted that the area, from Florida Gardens stop through to the southern extent of Section 3, whilst being less than five metres AHD, is also mapped as having a low or negligible potential for ASS. There is potential for disturbing ASS/PASS during construction activities along the corridor through direct disturbance and increased pore pressures due to additional trafficable loading. The key mitigation strategy for minimising any disturbance of ASS/PASS is the identification and quantification of all ASS/PASS that could potentially be disturbed during the construction phase of the project. A detailed ASS/PASS investigation is therefore required under SPP 2/02 Planning and Managing Development Involving Acid Sulfate Soils to be undertaken prior to the detailed design phase of the project. Following these assessments an ASS Management Plan will then be required to detail the treatment and mitigation measures required.

4.5 Contaminated Land Searches of the Queensland EPA’s Environmental Management Register (EMR) and Contaminated Land Register (CLR) were conducted for lots likely to be affected by the proposed alignment. A walk past Vol 2 Chp 20–28 41/16445/364842 Gold Coast Rapid Transit Concept Design Impact Management Plan Volume 2 Chapter 20 - Soils, Geology and Topography

inspection from outside the property was undertaken for those sites which were listed on the EMR. Detailed site investigations (soil, groundwater and surface water) and historical reviews were not conducted as part of this stage of the project. These studies identified the following:

» Section 2: A total of five EMR listed properties were identified, with a total of three different Notifiable Activities recorded.

» Section 3: A total of 22 EMR listed properties were identified, with a total of three different Notifiable Activities recorded. Construction activities including surface excavation, road works, and construction of transition structures have the potential to encounter contaminated soil and/or groundwater. Contaminants in the soil may be released into the environment through contact with stormwater in situ or at a disposal location as well as by drawdown by groundwater. Based on the review conducted to date, the main contamination issues that are likely to be faced for the GCRT include:

» presence of a number of service stations and petroleum product or oil storage facilities. Contaminants typically associated with these types of situations including aliphatic hydrocarbons, monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes), phenols, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and lead. Typically the presence of this type of contamination would not create significant barriers to the establishment of the GCRT corridor; and

» establishment of the GCRT corridor and depot at GCCC’s current depot site at Baratta Street, which also includes a former landfill site. The landfill site in particular poses a range of potential contamination and geotechnical issues requiring further investigation in order to progress the design further. Detailed and area specific mitigation measures to address the risks associated with contaminated soils will be documented based on the findings of additional investigations. For all sites along the alignment listed on the EMR, as a minimum a review of historical and current activities should be undertaken to further assess potential and minimise the risk for contamination impacts on the GCRT.

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